City Lead Chase for Morocco Midfielder
Manchester City are “pushing hard” to secure the signature of Lille OSC midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to The Athletic. The Premier League champions have identified the 18-year-old Morocco international as a priority target and have moved decisively ahead of rival suitors in recent days.
Paris Saint-Germain have definitively withdrawn from negotiations, leaving City as the clear frontrunners for the highly-rated teenager. Lille officials are now preparing to hold formal discussions regarding the player’s future, with talks deliberately postponed until Bouaddi completed his commitments with Morocco at the FIFA World Cup in North America.
World Cup Displays Drive Up Price
Bouaddi’s tournament performances have significantly enhanced his market value. Even before the competition, the midfielder had established himself on the radar of top European clubs, but his displays for Morocco in North America have accelerated transfer timelines and bolstered his asking price.
Lille are willing to sanction his departure, though they remain prepared to retain their academy graduate should suitable terms fail to materialise. The French club have established a valuation of approximately €100 million, a figure that reflects both the player’s immense potential and his current contract status. Les Dogues are open to a sale at this price point.
United and Arsenal Monitoring Situation
Whilst Manchester City currently lead the pursuit, they face potential competition from within the Premier League. Both Arsenal and Manchester United have maintained links with the player and continue to monitor developments as they assess their own midfield reinforcement options.
Immediate Integration Planned
City’s approach may ultimately prove decisive. Should they complete the transfer, the club intend to integrate Bouaddi directly into Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad rather than loaning him back to Lille or developing him elsewhere. This strategy offers the teenager an immediate pathway to Premier League and Champions League football.
With Bouaddi now expected to return to France following the conclusion of his international duties, a resolution regarding his future is anticipated imminently.